On Dec. 12 and 13, students from all grades at Central Boulevard School participated in a project that brought the school community together and encouraged positive thinking. As part of the Energy Bus program, each student decorated a rock with their chosen “one word” mantra for the year, which they then placed in a garden bed outside the school. The rock garden serves as a lasting reminder of the students’ goals and aspirations.
The “one word” mantra is a part of the Energy Bus program’s first rule: “Create a positive vision.” At the school’s first Energy Bus assembly in October, school psychologist Dr. Louis Ricci and library media specialist Ms. Ashley Scotto challenged students to reflect on a single word they could focus on throughout the year to help shape their positive vision. Examples of students’ words included “mindful,” “kind,” “love,” “positivity,” “family,” “patience” and “courage.”
The project was a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort involving multiple classes and departments. In the library, Ms. Scotto guided students in brainstorming their “one word” during lessons focused on personal reflection and positivity. In art class, under the guidance of Mrs. Rothwell, students brought their words to life by decorating rocks that would later become part of the garden. The rocks are now displayed around a tree outside the school, creating an inspirational space for the entire CBS community.
